But what do we say if it is .. how to say it best? ..three or more handed? On the one hand and on the other only gives you two, supposing there are more alternatives? For the life of me I can't think of a snappy way of saying this.

I just know this is going to be another of those threads where I find myself talking it over to the dog. I so need to get out more!

Ok, now I'm completely confused. You're right. When would we say "on the other hand" when we are giving multiple options? in English or in Spanish? So, I guess I should change my answer to "No". After thinking about it, I think we would only use it in an either/or situation. Do you agree??

Hi people:
Having only two hands is not the problem. The actual problem was that the expression hasn't been translated properly. On the other hand implies only two options because it is mainly main used to contrast two things or people, whereas por otro lado has nothing to do with contrasts; it just adds some information which may not be related to the point under discussion (El presidente del Banco Central afirmó que la economía ha mejorado en los últimos dos años. Por otro lado, dijo que la tasa de interés subirá de 3% a 3.2%, you see? no contrast between the economic situation and the inflation. Another example: Me gusta ir a la costa y poder nadar por horas en el mar; por otro lado me encanta ir al campo y alimentar los animales cada mañana) Unfortunately, despite the fact that I know what CeciW wants to express, the English expression for por otro lado escapes me at the moment (as soon as I remember it, I'll let you know) Greetings

Hello all, I don't think the use of "on the other hand" strictly confines one to merely two options, on the other hand, I've heard using idioms without care is risky business, but then I've also heard most people could care less. Have I just erred?

My boss likes to use this one a lot in business emails. I think I usually wind up translating it as "Also" or "Additionally" ...although I don't think this frase translates well. It's really just filler, and depends a lot on the context.

Very often, "por otro lado", as has already been mentioned, is used as a filler - Spanish writing is often full of connectors and fillers which makes the English text difficult to read. When it isn't used to contrast elements (on the other hand), or to add more information (moreover, in addition), it's usually best to take it out of the sentence completely - there will be no loss of meaning.

Very often, "por otro lado", as has already been mentioned, is used as a filler - Spanish writing is often full of connectors and fillers which makes the English text difficult to read. When it isn't used to contrast elements (on the other hand), or to add more information (moreover, in addition), it's usually best to take it out of the sentence completely - there will be no loss of meaning.